Trump backs improved gun checks
WASHINGTON, DC: United States President Donald Trump signalled support on Monday for improving background gun checks amid mounting pressure for reform in the wake of the Florida school shooting, as the accused gunman appeared in court.
Nikolas Cruz, charged with killing 17 people, sat silently with his head bowed during a procedural hearing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in what is expected to be a lengthy prosecution.
Wednesday’s rampage at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida ignited protests by students who survived the onslaught and renewed calls for changes in gun laws.
Cruz, 19, was able to legally buy a semi-automatic rifle despite numerous red flags that failed to prompt action by state and federal agencies.
The White House indicated that Trump is receptive to a bipartisan proposal that would require more prompt reporting to a national database of offences that would bar an individual from buying a firearm.
“While discussions are ongoing and revisions are being considered, the president is supportive of efforts to improve the federal background check system,” said White House spokesman Sarah Sanders.
The legislation, however, does not address the broader, divisive issue of permissive gun laws under the Second Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects the right to bear arms.